Country Music Legend Dolly Parton Dies at 80

Country music icon Dolly Parton died on Tuesday, at the age of 80, according to an announcement shared by her family on social media.

Family Announcement and Final Wishes

According to a video statement released on Parton’s official social media accounts, her nephew and head of security Bryan Seaver announced her death. Seaver stated in the video that Parton had lived in the light and was in the arms of Jesus, noting that she was surely met by her husband Carl Dean, her parents, and countless others. Parton’s death arrived just over a year after the death of her husband, Carl Dean, whom she married in 1966. Seaver shared details regarding Parton’s final requests in the family’s video announcement. Seaver also noted that he had served as her head of security for more than two decades, a role previously held by his father, Larry Seaver.

A Legendary Career Across Music and Film

Parton built a historic career that spanned Grammy-winning music, box office hit films, and extensive philanthropy. Beginning her journey as a child performing on local radio and television programs, she transitioned into writing and recording country music in the 1960s. After achieving minor success as a songwriter, she collaborated extensively with Porter Wagoner and released her debut solo album, Hello, I’m Dolly, in 1967.

Throughout her lifetime, Parton composed over 3,000 songs, including timeless classics such as Jolene, I Will Always Love You, and 9 to 5. She fully crossed over into mainstream territory by the late 1970s and became a household name in 1980 with her film debut in 9 to 5 opposite Jane F. Beyond her artistic achievements, Parton was widely recognized for her business savvy and her charitable efforts, including her Imagination Library literacy program.